Army Body Fat Calculator
Calculate your body fat percentage using the official US Army tape test formula. Check if you meet Army body composition standards for your age and gender.
Army Body Fat Results
Body Fat %
18.5%
Max: 22%
Status
PASS
Meets Standards
Army Body Fat Results
Body Fat %
18.5%
Max: 22%
Status
PASS
Meets Standards
Basic Information
Measurements
At narrowest point below Adam's apple
At navel level
Body Fat vs Standard
Your body fat: 18.5% | Maximum allowed: 22%
Army Body Fat Standards (Male)
| Age Group | Max Body Fat % |
|---|---|
| 17-20 | 20% |
| 21-27 | 22% |
| 28-39 | 24% |
| 40+ | 26% |
Official Measurement Instructions
Neck Measurement
- Measure below Adam's apple
- Find the smallest circumference
- Round down to nearest ½ inch
- Keep tape perpendicular to axis
Waist Measurement
- Males: At navel level
- Females: At natural waist
- Round up to nearest ½ inch
- Measure at end of exhale
Body Composition Scenarios
Explore how changes affect your results
Body Fat % vs Army Standards (Male)
Compared to the general population
Your Body Fat
18.5 %
Percentile
41th
Below average - looking good!
Distribution
Athlete
12.0
Fit
16.0
Standard
20.0
Max (28-39)
24.0
Over
28.0
Your Ranking
Top 41%
59% are higher
Body Composition Tips
Based on your results
Your Army Body Fat Status
At 18.5%, you are 3.5% under the 22% limit. Maintain your current fitness level.
Waist Circumference Strategy
Each 1" reduction in waist circumference typically decreases body fat percentage by 1-2%. Focus on caloric deficit and core exercises.
Build Neck Muscle
Building neck muscle can increase neck circumference, which improves your tape test results. Include neck curls and shrugs in your routine.
Quick Answer
The Army body fat test uses neck and waist measurements (plus hip for women). Men: %BF = 86.010×log10(waist-neck) - 70.041×log10(height) + 36.76. Maximum allowed: 26% for men 17-20, 28% for 28-39.
Key Facts
- Uses circumference measurements, not calipers
- Different formulas for men and women
- Maximum body fat varies by age and gender
- Measured only if exceeding weight standards
- Neck, waist required; hip for women
- Official Army Regulation 600-9 standards
Frequently Asked Questions
The Army body fat calculator uses the official US Army formula to estimate body fat percentage using circumference measurements. It's used when a soldier exceeds height-weight screening limits. Measurements are taken at specific body sites and plugged into gender-specific formulas.
Army body fat limits vary by age and gender. Males: 20% (17-20), 22% (21-27), 24% (28-39), 26% (40+). Females: 30% (17-20), 32% (21-27), 34% (28-39), 36% (40+). Soldiers exceeding these limits may face administrative actions.
The Army tape test has limitations. Studies show it can overestimate body fat in muscular individuals and underestimate in others. Error rate is typically ±3-5%. However, it's practical for field use and provides consistent measurements when done correctly.
Measurements must be taken precisely: Neck - at the smallest point below the Adam's apple. Waist - at the navel for men, at the natural waist for women. Hips (women only) - at the widest point. Take three measurements, use the average.
Soldiers exceeding body fat standards are enrolled in the Army Body Composition Program (ABCP). They receive counseling, must show monthly progress, and face potential separation if they don't meet standards within a timeframe. Promotion eligibility is also affected.
Army Body Fat Results
Body Fat %
18.5%
Max: 22%
Status
PASS
Meets Standards